RP Between Yam and Rook
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Rook — 03/11/2021
It was a day off and one he wanted to take advantage of when he could, so instead of bothering to go hunting, Jack made his way down to the market with a list in hand. Food was pointless to him, of course, but he still nabbed a bag of various fruit and had that paid for. Next, he examined wares for more aesthetic reasons rather than necessities. Money had been decent, so it certainly opened up a chance to get more than his usual.
The vampire greeted some people, ignored unsure looks about others and eventually settled on a few well-made glass wares. An hour-glass held his attention, simply because of its unique design and he'd spin it carefully. "Yes, this looks good. I'll take it."
yam — 03/11/2021
As Onnushi often did, he drifted about like a stray seed on the wind. His kaftan replaced and new, he looked far more presentable and certainly less ominous, save for his signature eyes. Barefooted as always, he slithered through the market crowd like smoke through a grate, effortlessly and without hesitation. He didn't seem to stop, as if he had no interest in the passerby or the wares. The truth was he was looking at everyone and every thing, soaking it up. Some people seemed to not even notice him, while others avoided him. The odd few even followed briefly, only to break away looking disoriented as if they weren't sure why they had done it.
If conspicuous were a thing, Onnushi would be a prime example of the species. With raven hair, scarlet eyes and milk-white skin with a pale garb to match, although not disturbing to look at for stains and the like, he certainly was eye catching and difficult to simply overlook. It was curious that some did more than that, truthfully.
Slowing to a halt not far from the glass wares, he would seemingly stare at absolutely nothing at all for a moment before slowly turning his head toward Jack. It was an empty, analytical gaze completely lacking in expression. A test?
The man batted an eye, a drop of blood manifesting in the corner of his eye only to grow heavy and escape it's cradle and streak down that pristine face.
A test indeed.
Rook — 03/11/2021
Onnushi had almost gone overlooked, if Jack didn't sense something off. He had paid up for the hourglass and tucked it underneath an arm, content to play oblivious to the strange man. It worked well enough, until he was being stared at and he turned to face Onnu with a smile.
"Hello. Something on your mind?" He'd even check, if needed! Despite his thoughts, the vampire played up that nonchalant air well and retied his pouch of shards back around his belt. Whatever the test was, he was 'oblivious' to that, too. But, now Onnushi was bleeding and Jack glanced to the Merchant a quick moment.
"You need a medic? A cloth..?" The blood was certainly appealing, but he kept his composure and he stepped back a pace as if overly concerned about this sudden bleeding.
yam — 03/11/2021
Onnushi appeared almost disappointed. Almost. Pale, bare hand raising, he would wave it slowly in a dismissive manner. A hand would raise, thumbing over the blood in one fluid motion. The blood was gone, as if it had never been there.
"I am fine." Apparently. The step back was observed, but not commented on. "That is a fascinating piece you've just purchased. May I ask what drew you to it?" Although warm, his voice carried an eerie lack of feeling to it, as if his voice was a rehearsed line on an answering machine, not truly talking to someone else.
Rook — 03/11/2021
The minor disappointment was dismissed, and he merely smiled again. "Oh good to know. Strange trait that." But familiar. He wouldn't ponder on it too long, but the man before him was concerning. When asked about the hourglass, he glanced down at the bag.
"The make is interesting, and I've always been fond of glass-objects. I would have gotten one of crystal, but I like this more - having delicate things for me has been rare for many, many years. Never really settled in one place like this." Jack explained, leaning into the stall when he was sure he wouldn't knock anything down.
"Nothing too exciting."
yam — 03/11/2021
The comment was not acknowledged. No, it was as if he hadn't even heard it. Onnushi leap-frogged right over and onto the next set of words: "I can relate. I own nothing." His clothes seemed like possessions, but... "Even the cloth which rests upon my back, I do not see it as my own. Given to me by the concerned passerby, the previous garb was deemed no longer fit to wear."
"You live here, then? I have only recently begun exploring here myself."
Pale hands came to rest at his front, one palm over the back of the other. He slowly approached, stopping about five feet away.
Rook — 03/11/2021
"What's stopping you now?" Jack asked following Onnushi's comment and he eyed the cloth, but it prompted another question. "So you...walked around without it?" Strange fellow. Even moreso as he continued on. "Yes, I've only been here a couple months, just started working recently as one of the guards."
When approached this time, the vampire merely watched him and didn't bother to straighten up from where he was leaning. "Probably know about this place a lot more than other newcomers, in regards to locations, but that's the fun of random patrols."
yam — 03/12/2021
"Yes." The answer came so easily, as if there was absolutely nothing abnormal about the fact. To be fair, that was perfectly normal for Onnushi, to streak until intercepted. That had been the norm since his original, true birth. He was born bare and likely would eventually die bare.
"I live nowhere. I own no residence, nor do I desire to. To own something, one must have a place to store it, or be able to carry it with them always. I possess neither."
He didn't look like a bum. Thanks to the new clothes, and his general outward cleanliness, if anything he looked like a monk or... well. A strange individual. Which he was.
"Oh? That's good. I have been here for a time yet, I simply have been acclimating, I suppose. I've done quite a bit of major uprooting in recent years."
Rook — 03/12/2021
"One could likely just have a safe spot to put things, you don't need to own an actual place. Could even just be a cave even." Jack suggested, though if Onnushi seemed uninterested still, he wouldn't go for the ideas a second time.
"You're very clean for someone who doesn't own a place, too." He pointed out and finally straightened, attention directed towards another stall in consideration.
"Oh, yes? Planning to stick around at all now, or just passing through?"
yam — 03/12/2021
Onnushi finally offered one of those signature, sleepy smiles of his. "I could, but why? I feel for something such as myself, becoming attached to objects is illogical." Well that's one way to put it-- wait, something such as himself?
"Thank you. I shed dirt rather readily, truth be told, and what I don't shed just becomes a part of me. Bathing is unnecessary but pleasant, so long as no soap is involved." ...isn't that what bathing is about...? Soap? Water? Getting clean?
"I think so. I have always traveled, you see, and for very long distances for long periods of time. Some times, I do not rest at all for weeks or even months at a time. The same can be said for resting though. Some times I rest for weeks or months at a time." Okay... "I would like to explore the entirety of this landmass in his glory. I have yet to acquire a map, however. That is one item I would very much like to get my hands on. Do you know where I might find an up-to-date one? Is there a cartographer in town, or do you know?" The one item he was willing to 'own' at the moment, evidently. Though that wasn't an unreasonable one at all, many people valued maps. Travelers in particular, like himself.
Rook — 03/12/2021
"Something such as yourself?" Jack had to repeat that strange comment, but now he was intrigued. He dismissed further comment about the point of keeping items, though talk of 'shedding' dirt was strange in itself, not counting not needing soap. "What's wrong with soap?"
He was quiet again following those questions, but Onnushi provided more and more of an enigma. Had the man infront of him been a more domineering sort, he might have taken to it differently. There was a strange sense...to most of it, and it left Jack wanting to unravel whatever secrets this entity held.
"Whatever works, right? As for maps, you could check the library, but as for actual cartographers, I've little idea who would be the best to go to. There's a couple, you can find one by the library and the other is often here...but only during the day. He's a bit nervous about the nocturnal sorts."
Jack sounded amused, if only briefly.
yam — 03/12/2021
As per usual, Onnushi unashamedly ignored portions of the conversation and didn't acknowledge them at all, making one wonder if he even heard them. In truth he had, he simply was a strange thing and didn't think it pertinent to acknowledge.
"Soap kills perfectly good germs, doesn't it?"
Now, not everyone knew what germs even were. He had been looked at strangely more than once in his lifetimes for making mention of the things. He didn't seem keen on elaborating.
"I see. I may try the library first, since everything else will be there as well." Finally an amusement of Onnushi's own surfaced at mention of the fearful map maker.
"Sweet lamb. He is wise, though. His blood is far more valuable than his artwork to some."
Rook — 03/12/2021
"Fair, what's that got to do with you? Or is this another question you'll ignore?" Part of him assumed such, so he moved from that stall to another across the way and went through the goods provided. Wooden dishes, likely being sold for the Grimani house through the late-night Merchants that worked when the kids did not.
"His blood? Strange thought. What do you know of it then?"
Jack plucked up a well-crafted bowl, considered it a moment and placed it back in its place. "Lovely things here, a shame I can't find much use for these."
yam — 03/13/2021
Onnushi gave Jack a rather smug look— the sort of look that got pretty boys punched. "I am not suicidal." Ah yes, Onnushi was one great, big, fat germ. Made perfect sense.
"Why, are you implying I know something?" He did. He knew a lot of things, though. It was hard to say what he did and didn't know, truthfully.
Onnushi followed along like a pest, maintaining a respectful distance. Hands had switched to being held loosely at his back.
"I would assume not, no. Nor I. I have used them to be polite but I have never owned a dish or utensil. It would be pointless."
"They are lovely though, aren't they? I can appreciate quality craftsmanship. I suppose in a way I am an artist myself. I appreciate things made with care."
Rook — 03/13/2021
"If you say so." Probably some sort of parasitic thing, Jack wagered, even if he didn't know how to really make sense of it. "Yes. You did mention their blood being valuable - I assumed you'd know why. Unless you're meaning he considers it valuable simply out of some strange narcissism. Who knows with humans these days."
There was always one who considered something of their body being super important and wonderful, and worthy of being protected.
"Yes, you've mentioned the whole bit with material wares." Jack replied with a nod, as he plucked up a bottle of the olive oil. "An artist? In what way?"
yam — 03/13/2021
"Man as a whole is very prone to narcissism. Oft when it is not true narcissism it is rooted to something underlying like insecurity or fear, just as most other negative behavioural traits are. Anger and disgust is most often tethered to fear. Man is a very fearful species, isn't it?" Shut up, Onnushi.
Once more he did not acknowledge the first, but the latter. In a way, although not Man, he could come off as narcissistic as well, as he seemed not to tire talking about himself: "I sculpt things in my own image. As the Kirishitan God made Man in His Own, so do I, though I do not make Man. I can change Man, but I cannot make Man. That is left up to the experts: Man himself."
"I'm sure I'm boring you though, yes? Shall I leave you alone? I am sure you can relate in that when one encounters a curious scent, not always is it easy to resist the temptation to investigate. I am guilty in that respect. I see you now, after all. No longer are you a nasal shadow." A what
Rook — 03/14/2021
"Yes." Jack said simply after Onnushi went on, though he added little else to it. It certainly sounded narcissistic, especially as the strange man continued and he paid for the olive oil. What he'd use it for was undecided, but he figured it'd come in handy at some point. Not for him, but others.
"Are you lonely or something? You kind of ramble, and to a strange, that comes off with a want for some sort of attention." The vampire would ask, as he stared back at Onnushi. "I suppose. I don't tend to investigate like most, I've seen a lot throughout the years. A nasal shadow."
He repeated, equal points amused and exasperated. "I'm not much different than the other blood-suckers I'm sure you've met, however."
yam — 03/14/2021
Onnushi tilted his head slowly, sleepily. "Loneliness is not something I am capable of feeling. I do, however, thoroughly enjoy conversations. Especially if I am able to meet someone new. There is an endless number of people to investigate and learn about. Trust me, you are not special. I pick at random."
His picking often was based on who reacted the least to his pheromones. He found them fascinating and more easy to interact with, as their minds were not bogged down by bestial compulsion.
"No, probably not. You seem quite average of one to me." Certainly about as emotional as one. He had only ever met one emotional vampire and that one had some other issues going on that warranted it.
"I shall leave you then, if you like. I detect in you a weariness of my persistence. Shall we exchange names, or part ways strangers still? I do not mind either way."
Rook — 03/14/2021
"Oh, good to know it won't be a constant factor when I'm shopping. So many people to talk at." Jack said though he reached over to pat Onnushi's shoulder. Given all he'd said and the way he acted prompted the telepath to avoid using those abilities, who knew what was lurking in that one's mind.
"Great." Being called average was fine, because the less some paid attention, the better. "Not entirely special in all shapes and forms." He agreed with a dry chuckle, though he wasn't against exchanging names. "Jack Walsh, private of the Guard, serving under Harken." For now.
Atleast he'd get something out of working with Harpur, as frustrating as it'd be. He'd hold out his hand, just to make the introduction more friendly.
yam — 03/14/2021
Jack would find Onnushi's shoulder to be more solid and hard than a shoulder had any right being. It was like patting boulder, it didn't even spring back.
"I am called Onnushi."
When a hand was extended, so too would he one of his own. His hand felt far more hand-like. Perhaps because it had been offered. Despite this it was unusually soft and dry, reminiscent of chalk-dusted palms during sport.
"I think I will go find that library. Best of luck shopping, Jack Walsh of the Guard."
Rook — 03/14/2021
"Good to meet you more formally, Onnushi." The change from hard shoulder to a softer hand was certainly noticed, but something to learn more about later on perhaps. "Hopefully you can find all you're looking for from there."
After shaking his hand, Jack stepped back and added his bottle of oil carefully to the bag. "This'll be it." What else would he need? He stepped away, then, heading for his own little house a distance away.
It was a day off and one he wanted to take advantage of when he could, so instead of bothering to go hunting, Jack made his way down to the market with a list in hand. Food was pointless to him, of course, but he still nabbed a bag of various fruit and had that paid for. Next, he examined wares for more aesthetic reasons rather than necessities. Money had been decent, so it certainly opened up a chance to get more than his usual.
The vampire greeted some people, ignored unsure looks about others and eventually settled on a few well-made glass wares. An hour-glass held his attention, simply because of its unique design and he'd spin it carefully. "Yes, this looks good. I'll take it."
yam — 03/11/2021
As Onnushi often did, he drifted about like a stray seed on the wind. His kaftan replaced and new, he looked far more presentable and certainly less ominous, save for his signature eyes. Barefooted as always, he slithered through the market crowd like smoke through a grate, effortlessly and without hesitation. He didn't seem to stop, as if he had no interest in the passerby or the wares. The truth was he was looking at everyone and every thing, soaking it up. Some people seemed to not even notice him, while others avoided him. The odd few even followed briefly, only to break away looking disoriented as if they weren't sure why they had done it.
If conspicuous were a thing, Onnushi would be a prime example of the species. With raven hair, scarlet eyes and milk-white skin with a pale garb to match, although not disturbing to look at for stains and the like, he certainly was eye catching and difficult to simply overlook. It was curious that some did more than that, truthfully.
Slowing to a halt not far from the glass wares, he would seemingly stare at absolutely nothing at all for a moment before slowly turning his head toward Jack. It was an empty, analytical gaze completely lacking in expression. A test?
The man batted an eye, a drop of blood manifesting in the corner of his eye only to grow heavy and escape it's cradle and streak down that pristine face.
A test indeed.
Rook — 03/11/2021
Onnushi had almost gone overlooked, if Jack didn't sense something off. He had paid up for the hourglass and tucked it underneath an arm, content to play oblivious to the strange man. It worked well enough, until he was being stared at and he turned to face Onnu with a smile.
"Hello. Something on your mind?" He'd even check, if needed! Despite his thoughts, the vampire played up that nonchalant air well and retied his pouch of shards back around his belt. Whatever the test was, he was 'oblivious' to that, too. But, now Onnushi was bleeding and Jack glanced to the Merchant a quick moment.
"You need a medic? A cloth..?" The blood was certainly appealing, but he kept his composure and he stepped back a pace as if overly concerned about this sudden bleeding.
yam — 03/11/2021
Onnushi appeared almost disappointed. Almost. Pale, bare hand raising, he would wave it slowly in a dismissive manner. A hand would raise, thumbing over the blood in one fluid motion. The blood was gone, as if it had never been there.
"I am fine." Apparently. The step back was observed, but not commented on. "That is a fascinating piece you've just purchased. May I ask what drew you to it?" Although warm, his voice carried an eerie lack of feeling to it, as if his voice was a rehearsed line on an answering machine, not truly talking to someone else.
Rook — 03/11/2021
The minor disappointment was dismissed, and he merely smiled again. "Oh good to know. Strange trait that." But familiar. He wouldn't ponder on it too long, but the man before him was concerning. When asked about the hourglass, he glanced down at the bag.
"The make is interesting, and I've always been fond of glass-objects. I would have gotten one of crystal, but I like this more - having delicate things for me has been rare for many, many years. Never really settled in one place like this." Jack explained, leaning into the stall when he was sure he wouldn't knock anything down.
"Nothing too exciting."
yam — 03/11/2021
The comment was not acknowledged. No, it was as if he hadn't even heard it. Onnushi leap-frogged right over and onto the next set of words: "I can relate. I own nothing." His clothes seemed like possessions, but... "Even the cloth which rests upon my back, I do not see it as my own. Given to me by the concerned passerby, the previous garb was deemed no longer fit to wear."
"You live here, then? I have only recently begun exploring here myself."
Pale hands came to rest at his front, one palm over the back of the other. He slowly approached, stopping about five feet away.
Rook — 03/11/2021
"What's stopping you now?" Jack asked following Onnushi's comment and he eyed the cloth, but it prompted another question. "So you...walked around without it?" Strange fellow. Even moreso as he continued on. "Yes, I've only been here a couple months, just started working recently as one of the guards."
When approached this time, the vampire merely watched him and didn't bother to straighten up from where he was leaning. "Probably know about this place a lot more than other newcomers, in regards to locations, but that's the fun of random patrols."
yam — 03/12/2021
"Yes." The answer came so easily, as if there was absolutely nothing abnormal about the fact. To be fair, that was perfectly normal for Onnushi, to streak until intercepted. That had been the norm since his original, true birth. He was born bare and likely would eventually die bare.
"I live nowhere. I own no residence, nor do I desire to. To own something, one must have a place to store it, or be able to carry it with them always. I possess neither."
He didn't look like a bum. Thanks to the new clothes, and his general outward cleanliness, if anything he looked like a monk or... well. A strange individual. Which he was.
"Oh? That's good. I have been here for a time yet, I simply have been acclimating, I suppose. I've done quite a bit of major uprooting in recent years."
Rook — 03/12/2021
"One could likely just have a safe spot to put things, you don't need to own an actual place. Could even just be a cave even." Jack suggested, though if Onnushi seemed uninterested still, he wouldn't go for the ideas a second time.
"You're very clean for someone who doesn't own a place, too." He pointed out and finally straightened, attention directed towards another stall in consideration.
"Oh, yes? Planning to stick around at all now, or just passing through?"
yam — 03/12/2021
Onnushi finally offered one of those signature, sleepy smiles of his. "I could, but why? I feel for something such as myself, becoming attached to objects is illogical." Well that's one way to put it-- wait, something such as himself?
"Thank you. I shed dirt rather readily, truth be told, and what I don't shed just becomes a part of me. Bathing is unnecessary but pleasant, so long as no soap is involved." ...isn't that what bathing is about...? Soap? Water? Getting clean?
"I think so. I have always traveled, you see, and for very long distances for long periods of time. Some times, I do not rest at all for weeks or even months at a time. The same can be said for resting though. Some times I rest for weeks or months at a time." Okay... "I would like to explore the entirety of this landmass in his glory. I have yet to acquire a map, however. That is one item I would very much like to get my hands on. Do you know where I might find an up-to-date one? Is there a cartographer in town, or do you know?" The one item he was willing to 'own' at the moment, evidently. Though that wasn't an unreasonable one at all, many people valued maps. Travelers in particular, like himself.
Rook — 03/12/2021
"Something such as yourself?" Jack had to repeat that strange comment, but now he was intrigued. He dismissed further comment about the point of keeping items, though talk of 'shedding' dirt was strange in itself, not counting not needing soap. "What's wrong with soap?"
He was quiet again following those questions, but Onnushi provided more and more of an enigma. Had the man infront of him been a more domineering sort, he might have taken to it differently. There was a strange sense...to most of it, and it left Jack wanting to unravel whatever secrets this entity held.
"Whatever works, right? As for maps, you could check the library, but as for actual cartographers, I've little idea who would be the best to go to. There's a couple, you can find one by the library and the other is often here...but only during the day. He's a bit nervous about the nocturnal sorts."
Jack sounded amused, if only briefly.
yam — 03/12/2021
As per usual, Onnushi unashamedly ignored portions of the conversation and didn't acknowledge them at all, making one wonder if he even heard them. In truth he had, he simply was a strange thing and didn't think it pertinent to acknowledge.
"Soap kills perfectly good germs, doesn't it?"
Now, not everyone knew what germs even were. He had been looked at strangely more than once in his lifetimes for making mention of the things. He didn't seem keen on elaborating.
"I see. I may try the library first, since everything else will be there as well." Finally an amusement of Onnushi's own surfaced at mention of the fearful map maker.
"Sweet lamb. He is wise, though. His blood is far more valuable than his artwork to some."
Rook — 03/12/2021
"Fair, what's that got to do with you? Or is this another question you'll ignore?" Part of him assumed such, so he moved from that stall to another across the way and went through the goods provided. Wooden dishes, likely being sold for the Grimani house through the late-night Merchants that worked when the kids did not.
"His blood? Strange thought. What do you know of it then?"
Jack plucked up a well-crafted bowl, considered it a moment and placed it back in its place. "Lovely things here, a shame I can't find much use for these."
yam — 03/13/2021
Onnushi gave Jack a rather smug look— the sort of look that got pretty boys punched. "I am not suicidal." Ah yes, Onnushi was one great, big, fat germ. Made perfect sense.
"Why, are you implying I know something?" He did. He knew a lot of things, though. It was hard to say what he did and didn't know, truthfully.
Onnushi followed along like a pest, maintaining a respectful distance. Hands had switched to being held loosely at his back.
"I would assume not, no. Nor I. I have used them to be polite but I have never owned a dish or utensil. It would be pointless."
"They are lovely though, aren't they? I can appreciate quality craftsmanship. I suppose in a way I am an artist myself. I appreciate things made with care."
Rook — 03/13/2021
"If you say so." Probably some sort of parasitic thing, Jack wagered, even if he didn't know how to really make sense of it. "Yes. You did mention their blood being valuable - I assumed you'd know why. Unless you're meaning he considers it valuable simply out of some strange narcissism. Who knows with humans these days."
There was always one who considered something of their body being super important and wonderful, and worthy of being protected.
"Yes, you've mentioned the whole bit with material wares." Jack replied with a nod, as he plucked up a bottle of the olive oil. "An artist? In what way?"
yam — 03/13/2021
"Man as a whole is very prone to narcissism. Oft when it is not true narcissism it is rooted to something underlying like insecurity or fear, just as most other negative behavioural traits are. Anger and disgust is most often tethered to fear. Man is a very fearful species, isn't it?" Shut up, Onnushi.
Once more he did not acknowledge the first, but the latter. In a way, although not Man, he could come off as narcissistic as well, as he seemed not to tire talking about himself: "I sculpt things in my own image. As the Kirishitan God made Man in His Own, so do I, though I do not make Man. I can change Man, but I cannot make Man. That is left up to the experts: Man himself."
"I'm sure I'm boring you though, yes? Shall I leave you alone? I am sure you can relate in that when one encounters a curious scent, not always is it easy to resist the temptation to investigate. I am guilty in that respect. I see you now, after all. No longer are you a nasal shadow." A what
Rook — 03/14/2021
"Yes." Jack said simply after Onnushi went on, though he added little else to it. It certainly sounded narcissistic, especially as the strange man continued and he paid for the olive oil. What he'd use it for was undecided, but he figured it'd come in handy at some point. Not for him, but others.
"Are you lonely or something? You kind of ramble, and to a strange, that comes off with a want for some sort of attention." The vampire would ask, as he stared back at Onnushi. "I suppose. I don't tend to investigate like most, I've seen a lot throughout the years. A nasal shadow."
He repeated, equal points amused and exasperated. "I'm not much different than the other blood-suckers I'm sure you've met, however."
yam — 03/14/2021
Onnushi tilted his head slowly, sleepily. "Loneliness is not something I am capable of feeling. I do, however, thoroughly enjoy conversations. Especially if I am able to meet someone new. There is an endless number of people to investigate and learn about. Trust me, you are not special. I pick at random."
His picking often was based on who reacted the least to his pheromones. He found them fascinating and more easy to interact with, as their minds were not bogged down by bestial compulsion.
"No, probably not. You seem quite average of one to me." Certainly about as emotional as one. He had only ever met one emotional vampire and that one had some other issues going on that warranted it.
"I shall leave you then, if you like. I detect in you a weariness of my persistence. Shall we exchange names, or part ways strangers still? I do not mind either way."
Rook — 03/14/2021
"Oh, good to know it won't be a constant factor when I'm shopping. So many people to talk at." Jack said though he reached over to pat Onnushi's shoulder. Given all he'd said and the way he acted prompted the telepath to avoid using those abilities, who knew what was lurking in that one's mind.
"Great." Being called average was fine, because the less some paid attention, the better. "Not entirely special in all shapes and forms." He agreed with a dry chuckle, though he wasn't against exchanging names. "Jack Walsh, private of the Guard, serving under Harken." For now.
Atleast he'd get something out of working with Harpur, as frustrating as it'd be. He'd hold out his hand, just to make the introduction more friendly.
yam — 03/14/2021
Jack would find Onnushi's shoulder to be more solid and hard than a shoulder had any right being. It was like patting boulder, it didn't even spring back.
"I am called Onnushi."
When a hand was extended, so too would he one of his own. His hand felt far more hand-like. Perhaps because it had been offered. Despite this it was unusually soft and dry, reminiscent of chalk-dusted palms during sport.
"I think I will go find that library. Best of luck shopping, Jack Walsh of the Guard."
Rook — 03/14/2021
"Good to meet you more formally, Onnushi." The change from hard shoulder to a softer hand was certainly noticed, but something to learn more about later on perhaps. "Hopefully you can find all you're looking for from there."
After shaking his hand, Jack stepped back and added his bottle of oil carefully to the bag. "This'll be it." What else would he need? He stepped away, then, heading for his own little house a distance away.
RP between Rigby (Marc) and Rook (Cienna)
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Marc — 04/08/2021
The fur had laced up his arm once he had taken, immediately, suddenly and unexpectedly; bursting forth freely in waves as black hairs, and not of the same color as from the mad beast he'd just slain, weaving their way around what had impossibly seemed to be the crowning emergence of pinions.
It had happened with startling grace and ease, had flown over any minor repairs his body had needed, and had been enough to shock him out of what had been an otherwise happy hunt. Quite naturally, as a thing that moved mana, as the Vaidya had described him, he'd felt better than ever. Light was clearer, sounds and smells were sharper.
He'd not found what that part of him had been searching for, but something about it had been closer than anything else had yet been. It just had happened to come with a fresh wave of terror, too.
He'd hidden the change with one of his usual gloves and stubbornly pulled down a long sleeve to tuck under the glove for good measure.
He'd even stubbornly wore the glove to bed.
Luckily that evening, the people that had noticed were limited to his still-secret manaraptor, who seemed particularly invigorated by the difference and cuddled up to the intrusion with no fear and showers of harmless, green and gold sparks.
By morning, the change had gone, perhaps insistently willed away or likely passively worked through his body, the remnants brushed away like stray, shaved stubble.
And it left a very scared and incredibly confused Marc.
Jack didn't know enough about this. Quinne could be anywhere. His father and Harpur was right out. That left Enrica, the Vaidya or Cienna. He had to let one of them know. And - then what? Hell if he knew.
And two of those people had a good chance of being out at market, if either or both were in good health that day..
Not particularly concerned with looking where he was going or appearing 'proper' in any way, he'd hurried through the street, careful not to collide with one of the butcher's boys (#deleted-channel) and pretending rather poorly he was shopping for something else and not entirely frazzled - all the while on the lookout for anyone he may recognize.
Rook — 04/13/2021
The Market was her usual haunt during the day, but Cienna was pushed to do more sales on account of Tommaso often being busy towards working other things, like slipping further into the role as a Guard for his House. That suited him more than Merchant, so the Heiress was happy to do something more relaxed.
The day had gone by well, she'd taken a few orders for some of their well-crafted furniture and sold some of the oil. Packing up was just as easy and given she needed something to eat, she'd send for one of her House's assistants to handle the cart since she likely could not.
It didn't take much to notice the frazzled-looking Marcello and she was quick to make her way over, eyebrows raised. It was clear by her expression that she was worried, but when did she ever hide her emotions? "Marcello. What happened? Are you alright?" If it had been a dire situation to his House, she was sure she'd have heard of it by now. Perhaps something entirely different..
Nonetheless, Cienna waited for him to reply as she made her way to his side to check for any possible injury.
Marc — 04/15/2021
[slight tw; body horror ment]
Thank everything holy, it was Cienna that saw him first, and visible relief and joy sparked in his eyes and eased unconsciously-tense shoulders.
"CIE, yes. Hi. Something weird happened. Weirder than normal." He looked around briefly, and ventured a half-hug that could probably be passed off as a more chaste greeting than it was to brief onlookers...before he hugged her, anyway, and surrendered to any of her examinations.
At the sound of Cienna's voice, Jian popped his head out of a pack at Marc's side, scrambling out across both of their arms with a strengthening lame limb to snuggle at Cienna's shoulder.
"Nothing bad, Father's having a good day," days had been divided, defeated, into 'good' and 'bad' days now, "...it's just...the thing." 'Thing' was accentuated with grit teeth and a wider roll of his eyes. Of their sudden and many 'things,' this was one of the 'more-secret-things' - and by the look on his face, it wasn't due to their mostly-secret relationship.
He'd not kept the hairs - they'd crumbled at his touch when handled with anything but utmost care (a behavior he'd also worryingly noted in many weres), and aside from the texture itself had not been distinctly different in color from anything currently popping out of him at the moment.
Sprouting feathers was another matter entirely. He'd be worried enough if all that mana-moving and eating did somehow turn him into a werewolf, but the pair of feathers he'd saved had been colored like Jian's - if not for each feather being length of the diminutive manaraptor's whole torso. And the manaraptor being alive and well and distinctly un-absorbed during the whole ordeal.
Marc was already incredibly choosy about whatever tactile experiences came his way. And he'd wished in the moment he'd shared Piero's old talent for falconry, but even with everything he'd passed along before his death, his brother neglected to mention that feathers had to mature before plucking them. The first attempt or two had fucking hurt and after mopping up the resulting mess, he'd learned to wait that one out.
So it was two long, cleaned, glittering green-and-red feathers he'd presented he'd presented to Cienna, like a demented and grim gift.
"They're, uh. Mine. I didn't do it."
Rook — 04/16/2021
"Weirder..?" Now she was concerned, but accepted that hug without hesitation. Good childhood friends, nothing to see here. Given he gave a hug easily enough, she suspected there was no injury to his torso and arms, something she contemplated while fingers brushed over Jian's feathery crest.
"The thing.." Atleast anything with his father being good was a relief, and she moved her hand to his shoulder after that look on his face. Concern flooded further through her, and she resisted the urge to be too affectionate, because of all those watchful eyes. Atleast Tommaso hadn't come along that day.
At the presentation of those feathers, Cienna would take them to look over. "...Yours? H-How? Wait, not here." No, too many people, too high a risk of someone coming over. She'd take his arm gently, seeking to lead him off towards the docks. By the current hour, it wouldn't be full of dock-workers - they'd have a few hours before more ships came back in.
Marc — 04/17/2021
Cienna was warm, her hug was welcome, and if anything could quell his rising tide of anxiety, it would be his wish to stay right here and share these moments she'd had left - but this was not the place, and her furtive and far more aware glances around to the crowds snapped him back to the present.
Just a guy and a gal, being pals.
He'd stilled some of his fidgets as best as he could and allowed himself to be led. While walking alongside her, he'd pulled up the sleeve of his arm and traced along the already-faint line from where he'd pulled them. It was incredibly normal now, save for the slight and sparkling Aetheran purple threading along the little scars, but he'd still rubbed at it with his free arm.
"There was some...hunting, hunting happened. The usual, nothing...weird. I'm okay," and he laughed unexpectedly at that - of COURSE he was okay, this wasn't a one-shot in an arena, he was clearly up and walking around. Around a few carts, a dock out-of-the-way, and he perched alongside of her. "Except -" Looked around, grumbling a "No Tomm, yeah?"
"...how are you?" If it was possible to be wholly sincere about her health and wholly sincerely dodging any explanation of his, Marc managed it.
"It stuck."
Rook — 04/19/2021
Cienna's eyes were drawn to that threading, but she made sure not to make it too obvious to avoid anyone wanting to see what she was looking at. Thankfully, they seemed to be in the clear so far. "Does it hurt?" She asked quietly, and she'd tuck the feathers away under her sash for now. As he explained what happened, she would nod lightly. "And then these appeared? Ah...grew?"
Mostly to confirm, and she'd lean into one of the empty barrels situated at the docks. "No...no Tomm, he's off doing something else. He likely won't come looking unless I'm out here all night." They had hours before then. "I'm...fine! But this is about you, I want to know all that happened." Cienna requested, reaching for that arm gently.
"Stuck?"
Marc — 04/20/2021
"Stuck. I don't...turn into stuff-!?," he had to stifle a yelp of rising panic and lowered his voice again very quickly. "...it just...goes down. Like soup. If soup were...not-soup. Magic." That was accompanied by a waggle of his fingers in what could only be described as a 'ta-daa' gesture. Magic! It could go down like soup - but going at any of this like a vampire hadn't even crossed his mind. "If there's healing to do, it does that first."
It did seem that by giving it voice, he answered the question that he'd not yet properly voiced. So far, it had only happpened when he'd been attacked or had hunted, or after arena scraps and sparring matches had gone wrong. "...didn't have any healing to do." He'd been starving himself.
He hummed lowly, filing thoughts in order, palms opening and closing, before one sought her hand and held tight.
"I'd gone out. Hunting, but...my-hunting. There was this thing, just a creature, sucking this family's goats dry, it was an easy one, got him with a bolt and went up to him, like this, made to go...well. Finish him off."
"I can't go around to either of our fathers with a bunch of fur or feathers. Or Harpur, gods forbid. Or Tomm, you KNOW he'd tattle to all of them." It was oddly, briefly immature when mentioning her brother, like they were all ten years younger and Tomm was betraying their sneaking out after bedtime or something equally harmless.
"Instead of like...healing and all of that, it just went right up my arm. Fur, feathers, felt amazing, and then they just...stayed there." He kept checking it and rubbing it with his free hand like it was about to come back, before adding with a helpless shrug. "I've got nothing." And then a nervous laugh. "But we've got a pair of really rare feathers now, though!" So funny. Funny, funny Marc. They were both gonna' die.
Rook — 04/29/2021
"Maybe there's a reason this happened. Has anything changed recently? Have you done anything different?" He mentioned the lack of needing to heal, but she wasn't going to suggest he do something that required it. She accepted the hand hold and after the feathers were hidden, she stroked the back of his with her free fingers. "No healing, but...your hunting did something else. Perhaps the absence of wounds channeled...this."
It was a shot in the dark, but she didn't quite understand it. "Yes, yes, of course." All those people would be disastrous to appear as such around, and she worried about what might happen next time. "What if....we find out if it was just that creature in particular that caused that? If there are no other strange effects, you can avoid it?" Another hopeful suggestion.
"I wish there was someone we could ask....someone who would know." In the city? Just as risking as if they went to Harpur. "Or....or books! Maybe the library, maybe someone's library. "Well, if nothing else, very lovely feathers.."
Marc — 05/01/2021
If Marc was usually one to avoid most contact, Cienna had the exact opposite effect on him; he'd lean into every touch, every stroke of his hand was returned...before he finally shifted to pull her close with that same arm. Nobody was here. If he could just keep her close and here and alive and happy, if they both could cut out everything else, every single game piece that kept spiraling out of their hands one after another out of control into sheer horror...he would be content.
Cienna, especially, was the only one completely privy to his tendency to...pick fights with supernatural beasts and beings, especially during their last couple of trips. Family and Harpur's training was quickly taking root in experience.
"Yeah. Yeah, I wonder. It fits with the rest of it." It was a very good shot in the dark.
Her next suggestion was also a good one, though it did earn a little bit of a heavier slump of his shoulders. "I've looked over my father's library top to bottom, there's a lot of monsters...not a lot of me. I'm sure your father'd pitch anything like that in the fire first glimpse he gets!" It was a brief and nervous laugh.
Then, though...an idea. "...books...Cie, how much trouble would we get in if we go for that magic academy?"
Rook — 05/02/2021
Cienna was happy to lean into that embrace and she smiled gently, one hand pressed gently to his chest. It was a happy moment she didn't want to be away from, even if it started from a very concerning ordeal. "I really wish I could understand it, just so I can help you better." She said just after he slumped, a sympathetic expression offered.
"Oh, yes, he would.."
But as Marc considered, there were other options and she rested her cheek to his shoulder. "Probably....a lot. I wonder if we can disguise ourselves or....get someone to help us. I met the nicest elf at the market once, and he gave me a book of magical creatures. I could try to find him and ask, or we could go to Jack."
Surely, the Academy wouldn't question a Guard. "But, I'm willing to go whatever route you do."
Marc — 05/05/2021
He knew her answer about her father already, but it still elicited a sigh, anyway, and when she'd rested her cheek on his shoulder, he rested his on her head. He even remained there when she offered her next idea, though she'd likely feel him tense and something in his bearing and voice lighten, a note of eagerness slipping openly into his next words.
"That's a good idea - find him if you can? Does he go? This elf and Jack. Combine our powers." Mundane powers. "Your elf for the...education. Jack for our pass.
"I'll see if I can find that Doctor, too, if they're still here and not off, you know." He waved a hand vaguely, the gesture meaning 'anywhere' - that group tended to travel more than either he or Cie were allowed. Such were the freedoms of the regular folks. "...but I don't know if they've gone, y'know. This far. If they could sprout feathers, they'd might as well go full bird, you know?" It might have been a by-product of age, trauma and fear, but the Vaidya, for all their strangeness, had seemed far more put-together about these things.
He finally straightened up, should she allow it, twist around in his position to look at her. Really look at her, eyes shining and full of gratitude and appreciation and willing to just linger there and hold onto that...and then should she allow, he would pull her into a tight hug, that spoke just as many volumes as his eyes - even if he didn't seem quite able to articulate much of it at all in the moment.
Cienna — 05/06/2021
It was a sad thing, to be that restricted by their families. It would have been nice to change things, though there was little they could do about that until they took over their respective Houses. Unfortunately, she had no chance of that - with the possibility of being married to another House.
"I can certainly try! I know the elf, Akka, goes to the market often. I will find him there when my brother's distracted." Not that Tommaso would bother her and a customer, but there was always a chance. Jack was easier, despite her father's frustrations and the risked arrival of Harpur. "Hopefully they're here.." If not, they could wait, right? "We'll figure things out, don't worry." She'd adjust the collar of his shirt, smoothing out the rest.
Cienna had straightened up too and smiled up at him, all too happy to accept that embrace. She'd return it fondly, resting her head against his chest. "You're going to be alright, I feel it."
Marc — 05/08/2021
"Hopefully," he echoed. "Can take Rosa on a walk, you can come with...just walk to them. Happen to run into them. I'd like to see what your elf has!"
And then, that hug. "Cie, I...I love you so much. I know you...I mean." She knew that. He'd not even known when he'd started saying it, knew he'd always shown but it spilled out properly just now, only truly restrained by his attempts at keeping his voice low - and albeit probably into her hair or shoulder! But her thought was a thought shared - and between her illness and whatever it was (never mind their marriage situation), those magical restrictions were really starting to get to him, ungluing his mind and composure at the seams.
"You always keep your head and have a plan in these situations. Even back when it was...normal things." Like his mother and Piero. "I've always admired that, I've always loved that, I wish your father and Tomm knew, somehow, how much you do. I'll be okay. So will you." And even if he...melted into a bird thing or whatever fresh hell this had become...a year ago, they'd sworn to each other that feelings wouldn't change.
But gods almighty, it'd be a lot harder to do any of this if one of them was a monster. Or dead.
Cienna — 05/11/2021
"I think that'd be a good idea." No one would question a random run-in, right?
The confession was met with a smile, and Cienna hugged him tighter. "I love you, too, Marc. We'll get through this, find a solution." Find a way to make it easier, hide it better - perhaps help Marc gain some real control. Someday, Cienna was sure he'd accept it as a positive thing and use it to his advantage. "You help, you know. You encourage my plans." Whereas her family stuck to old ways. A shame.
"Someday, maybe they will. Jack being around Tommaso helps, despite the issues." With their father, with Harpur. If only they knew how close the pair were, outside Nobleman and their new, paid Guard. "Yes, we will be. We have each other, we can handle anything!"
Marc — 05/14/2021
A little nod into their hug (which ended in a little unexpected burst and sniff of a laugh into her shoulder); knowing how close they were and allowing it would...really make so many things easier while things went to hell, never mind during the perfectly mundane practice of fathers shopping around for marriages like they were playing multi-leveled chess.
He hugged tighter, fingers curling carefully through her hair, cradling her back. When he did finally pull away, it was slower, reluctant; the pull was one that saw his lips graze her cheek.
Imagine getting caught like that.
His recovery was meant to pick up the conversation naturally...but really there was far too much flushing and scrambling to regain nerves and packing away of the flurry of emotions high and low into something he could handle for that to truly be the case.
"Jack can be like a...practice supernatural. If Tomm's all right with things, then I'm sure they can... eventually handle this, right? M'still Marc, like we were all saying a while ago, it'll be insane if they...stop, or be different right?" Aeson or Tomm turning away was a horrifying thought, never mind his father. Or Harpur. "I'm still Marc...and magical help for you is still...help." It was a trail, but it was a more confident trail than he'd been minutes ago, never mind hours ago when he was a mess of nerves and blood and feathers.
Cie just did that, she could fix anything. She had a way with that, always had.
It was sick, then, it was cruel, that nobody could fix her.
"Yes. Yes, we will be okay." He looked around quickly, still somewhat flushing. "...think we should head back? 'least before some worker wanders back here..."
Cienna — 05/15/2021
A grin followed that little laugh, and she rested her hands against his shoulder-blades. A quiet love for the moment followed, one that she inwardly promised would be repeated again and again. When the light kiss followed, her fingers moved to caress one of his cheeks and she blushed faintly after.
"Our fathers might be a harder thing to overcome, but I hope Tommaso helps bridge the gap a little." As much as they tried, but it came with the occasional argument and Tomm heading off for a bit. ...It'd take time, she knew. "With the help, it would.....they'd have to decide what means more; their feelings towards people like Jack or my declining health." Cienna would definitely ask what they cared about more, if it came down to it.
"Your Father will also need to remember that, despite everything, you are still his son and an important part to your family." She could imagine it wouldn't sit well with his sister, if things became too heated. He'd likely lose two children, if it did.
"....I think that'd be wise. We'll have to have some time in the garden, where no one will bother us."
Marc — 05/22/2021
He lingered at her touch as long as he could. Even if they were both blushing, he didn't want that moment to end. And even when it did, he'd savor every moment of closeness he could.
"See, I'd hoped my father was starting to get over that. He was talking about...weird things the other day, like Mom's stories about that bird and that tree... and didn't throw Jack out of our party. And he hired that troll for a gardener." It looked...a little hopeful. "Then you ask him about things, and he goes on about 'knowing their place' and it's...I don't know." And he still was rather close with Harpur - and THAT man didn't appear to be relenting on accepting anything supernatural, either.
He sighed and dragged one hand down his face; it seemed to help.
"I'll call it. I'll help you call it. If you have to." He was on her wavelength. "They can't...they won't throw their children to the wolves because of that. I know it." He didn't. But that doubt didn't affect his voice, this time; Cienna had his back and support for everything.
He'd rise, then, and offered her an arm as an escort. The gesture was somewhat playful as much as it was flirtatious ("no feathers, I swear").
"Garden's good. Let Jian run around a little. Some of the trees are already flowering, too! Maybe this year I'll actually paint 'em half as good as Richa could..."
Cienna — 05/23/2021
"I don't get it...I wonder if he's worried about his image, or showing he's changing his ways." People would see the supernaturals around his home, but he seemed to just treat them as the help and little else. But, to the point that it was pushing the boundaries of treating them like people.
"I'm sorry it's this way. Maybe it'll be different, because you're his son." Cienna could only hope, but she wouldn't push for him to reveal anything. She'd smile at his offer, both verbal and physical, taking his arm as she replied. "I agree, they won't. We're what's needed." And if they did, they'd lose a lot themselves.
"I think you will, Marc. I will be happy to practice with you." Once they started walking, she'd lean into him with a relaxed smile.
Marc — 05/31/2021
"See, I hope that's not us in a few years, old people not saying what they mean!" Marc had enough trouble with that already, and with what he and Cie had learned in the past few years, with what was coming in from Harpur, from Aeson, and with this very weird line his father appeared to want to tread, it was a mess made far more complex than perhaps it needed to be, as far as he was concerned. And at this point, he feared this complexity would come at the expense of their children.
Hopefully it wouldn't get that far.
Cienna leaned in...and while they'd began their walk arm-in-proper-arm, he would eventually venture an arm around her shoulders...and should she allow, it would travel carefully to her waist when they'd reached the relative secrecy of the garden.
The fur had laced up his arm once he had taken, immediately, suddenly and unexpectedly; bursting forth freely in waves as black hairs, and not of the same color as from the mad beast he'd just slain, weaving their way around what had impossibly seemed to be the crowning emergence of pinions.
It had happened with startling grace and ease, had flown over any minor repairs his body had needed, and had been enough to shock him out of what had been an otherwise happy hunt. Quite naturally, as a thing that moved mana, as the Vaidya had described him, he'd felt better than ever. Light was clearer, sounds and smells were sharper.
He'd not found what that part of him had been searching for, but something about it had been closer than anything else had yet been. It just had happened to come with a fresh wave of terror, too.
He'd hidden the change with one of his usual gloves and stubbornly pulled down a long sleeve to tuck under the glove for good measure.
He'd even stubbornly wore the glove to bed.
Luckily that evening, the people that had noticed were limited to his still-secret manaraptor, who seemed particularly invigorated by the difference and cuddled up to the intrusion with no fear and showers of harmless, green and gold sparks.
By morning, the change had gone, perhaps insistently willed away or likely passively worked through his body, the remnants brushed away like stray, shaved stubble.
And it left a very scared and incredibly confused Marc.
Jack didn't know enough about this. Quinne could be anywhere. His father and Harpur was right out. That left Enrica, the Vaidya or Cienna. He had to let one of them know. And - then what? Hell if he knew.
And two of those people had a good chance of being out at market, if either or both were in good health that day..
Not particularly concerned with looking where he was going or appearing 'proper' in any way, he'd hurried through the street, careful not to collide with one of the butcher's boys (#deleted-channel) and pretending rather poorly he was shopping for something else and not entirely frazzled - all the while on the lookout for anyone he may recognize.
Rook — 04/13/2021
The Market was her usual haunt during the day, but Cienna was pushed to do more sales on account of Tommaso often being busy towards working other things, like slipping further into the role as a Guard for his House. That suited him more than Merchant, so the Heiress was happy to do something more relaxed.
The day had gone by well, she'd taken a few orders for some of their well-crafted furniture and sold some of the oil. Packing up was just as easy and given she needed something to eat, she'd send for one of her House's assistants to handle the cart since she likely could not.
It didn't take much to notice the frazzled-looking Marcello and she was quick to make her way over, eyebrows raised. It was clear by her expression that she was worried, but when did she ever hide her emotions? "Marcello. What happened? Are you alright?" If it had been a dire situation to his House, she was sure she'd have heard of it by now. Perhaps something entirely different..
Nonetheless, Cienna waited for him to reply as she made her way to his side to check for any possible injury.
Marc — 04/15/2021
[slight tw; body horror ment]
Thank everything holy, it was Cienna that saw him first, and visible relief and joy sparked in his eyes and eased unconsciously-tense shoulders.
"CIE, yes. Hi. Something weird happened. Weirder than normal." He looked around briefly, and ventured a half-hug that could probably be passed off as a more chaste greeting than it was to brief onlookers...before he hugged her, anyway, and surrendered to any of her examinations.
At the sound of Cienna's voice, Jian popped his head out of a pack at Marc's side, scrambling out across both of their arms with a strengthening lame limb to snuggle at Cienna's shoulder.
"Nothing bad, Father's having a good day," days had been divided, defeated, into 'good' and 'bad' days now, "...it's just...the thing." 'Thing' was accentuated with grit teeth and a wider roll of his eyes. Of their sudden and many 'things,' this was one of the 'more-secret-things' - and by the look on his face, it wasn't due to their mostly-secret relationship.
He'd not kept the hairs - they'd crumbled at his touch when handled with anything but utmost care (a behavior he'd also worryingly noted in many weres), and aside from the texture itself had not been distinctly different in color from anything currently popping out of him at the moment.
Sprouting feathers was another matter entirely. He'd be worried enough if all that mana-moving and eating did somehow turn him into a werewolf, but the pair of feathers he'd saved had been colored like Jian's - if not for each feather being length of the diminutive manaraptor's whole torso. And the manaraptor being alive and well and distinctly un-absorbed during the whole ordeal.
Marc was already incredibly choosy about whatever tactile experiences came his way. And he'd wished in the moment he'd shared Piero's old talent for falconry, but even with everything he'd passed along before his death, his brother neglected to mention that feathers had to mature before plucking them. The first attempt or two had fucking hurt and after mopping up the resulting mess, he'd learned to wait that one out.
So it was two long, cleaned, glittering green-and-red feathers he'd presented he'd presented to Cienna, like a demented and grim gift.
"They're, uh. Mine. I didn't do it."
Rook — 04/16/2021
"Weirder..?" Now she was concerned, but accepted that hug without hesitation. Good childhood friends, nothing to see here. Given he gave a hug easily enough, she suspected there was no injury to his torso and arms, something she contemplated while fingers brushed over Jian's feathery crest.
"The thing.." Atleast anything with his father being good was a relief, and she moved her hand to his shoulder after that look on his face. Concern flooded further through her, and she resisted the urge to be too affectionate, because of all those watchful eyes. Atleast Tommaso hadn't come along that day.
At the presentation of those feathers, Cienna would take them to look over. "...Yours? H-How? Wait, not here." No, too many people, too high a risk of someone coming over. She'd take his arm gently, seeking to lead him off towards the docks. By the current hour, it wouldn't be full of dock-workers - they'd have a few hours before more ships came back in.
Marc — 04/17/2021
Cienna was warm, her hug was welcome, and if anything could quell his rising tide of anxiety, it would be his wish to stay right here and share these moments she'd had left - but this was not the place, and her furtive and far more aware glances around to the crowds snapped him back to the present.
Just a guy and a gal, being pals.
He'd stilled some of his fidgets as best as he could and allowed himself to be led. While walking alongside her, he'd pulled up the sleeve of his arm and traced along the already-faint line from where he'd pulled them. It was incredibly normal now, save for the slight and sparkling Aetheran purple threading along the little scars, but he'd still rubbed at it with his free arm.
"There was some...hunting, hunting happened. The usual, nothing...weird. I'm okay," and he laughed unexpectedly at that - of COURSE he was okay, this wasn't a one-shot in an arena, he was clearly up and walking around. Around a few carts, a dock out-of-the-way, and he perched alongside of her. "Except -" Looked around, grumbling a "No Tomm, yeah?"
"...how are you?" If it was possible to be wholly sincere about her health and wholly sincerely dodging any explanation of his, Marc managed it.
"It stuck."
Rook — 04/19/2021
Cienna's eyes were drawn to that threading, but she made sure not to make it too obvious to avoid anyone wanting to see what she was looking at. Thankfully, they seemed to be in the clear so far. "Does it hurt?" She asked quietly, and she'd tuck the feathers away under her sash for now. As he explained what happened, she would nod lightly. "And then these appeared? Ah...grew?"
Mostly to confirm, and she'd lean into one of the empty barrels situated at the docks. "No...no Tomm, he's off doing something else. He likely won't come looking unless I'm out here all night." They had hours before then. "I'm...fine! But this is about you, I want to know all that happened." Cienna requested, reaching for that arm gently.
"Stuck?"
Marc — 04/20/2021
"Stuck. I don't...turn into stuff-!?," he had to stifle a yelp of rising panic and lowered his voice again very quickly. "...it just...goes down. Like soup. If soup were...not-soup. Magic." That was accompanied by a waggle of his fingers in what could only be described as a 'ta-daa' gesture. Magic! It could go down like soup - but going at any of this like a vampire hadn't even crossed his mind. "If there's healing to do, it does that first."
It did seem that by giving it voice, he answered the question that he'd not yet properly voiced. So far, it had only happpened when he'd been attacked or had hunted, or after arena scraps and sparring matches had gone wrong. "...didn't have any healing to do." He'd been starving himself.
He hummed lowly, filing thoughts in order, palms opening and closing, before one sought her hand and held tight.
"I'd gone out. Hunting, but...my-hunting. There was this thing, just a creature, sucking this family's goats dry, it was an easy one, got him with a bolt and went up to him, like this, made to go...well. Finish him off."
"I can't go around to either of our fathers with a bunch of fur or feathers. Or Harpur, gods forbid. Or Tomm, you KNOW he'd tattle to all of them." It was oddly, briefly immature when mentioning her brother, like they were all ten years younger and Tomm was betraying their sneaking out after bedtime or something equally harmless.
"Instead of like...healing and all of that, it just went right up my arm. Fur, feathers, felt amazing, and then they just...stayed there." He kept checking it and rubbing it with his free hand like it was about to come back, before adding with a helpless shrug. "I've got nothing." And then a nervous laugh. "But we've got a pair of really rare feathers now, though!" So funny. Funny, funny Marc. They were both gonna' die.
Rook — 04/29/2021
"Maybe there's a reason this happened. Has anything changed recently? Have you done anything different?" He mentioned the lack of needing to heal, but she wasn't going to suggest he do something that required it. She accepted the hand hold and after the feathers were hidden, she stroked the back of his with her free fingers. "No healing, but...your hunting did something else. Perhaps the absence of wounds channeled...this."
It was a shot in the dark, but she didn't quite understand it. "Yes, yes, of course." All those people would be disastrous to appear as such around, and she worried about what might happen next time. "What if....we find out if it was just that creature in particular that caused that? If there are no other strange effects, you can avoid it?" Another hopeful suggestion.
"I wish there was someone we could ask....someone who would know." In the city? Just as risking as if they went to Harpur. "Or....or books! Maybe the library, maybe someone's library. "Well, if nothing else, very lovely feathers.."
Marc — 05/01/2021
If Marc was usually one to avoid most contact, Cienna had the exact opposite effect on him; he'd lean into every touch, every stroke of his hand was returned...before he finally shifted to pull her close with that same arm. Nobody was here. If he could just keep her close and here and alive and happy, if they both could cut out everything else, every single game piece that kept spiraling out of their hands one after another out of control into sheer horror...he would be content.
Cienna, especially, was the only one completely privy to his tendency to...pick fights with supernatural beasts and beings, especially during their last couple of trips. Family and Harpur's training was quickly taking root in experience.
"Yeah. Yeah, I wonder. It fits with the rest of it." It was a very good shot in the dark.
Her next suggestion was also a good one, though it did earn a little bit of a heavier slump of his shoulders. "I've looked over my father's library top to bottom, there's a lot of monsters...not a lot of me. I'm sure your father'd pitch anything like that in the fire first glimpse he gets!" It was a brief and nervous laugh.
Then, though...an idea. "...books...Cie, how much trouble would we get in if we go for that magic academy?"
Rook — 05/02/2021
Cienna was happy to lean into that embrace and she smiled gently, one hand pressed gently to his chest. It was a happy moment she didn't want to be away from, even if it started from a very concerning ordeal. "I really wish I could understand it, just so I can help you better." She said just after he slumped, a sympathetic expression offered.
"Oh, yes, he would.."
But as Marc considered, there were other options and she rested her cheek to his shoulder. "Probably....a lot. I wonder if we can disguise ourselves or....get someone to help us. I met the nicest elf at the market once, and he gave me a book of magical creatures. I could try to find him and ask, or we could go to Jack."
Surely, the Academy wouldn't question a Guard. "But, I'm willing to go whatever route you do."
Marc — 05/05/2021
He knew her answer about her father already, but it still elicited a sigh, anyway, and when she'd rested her cheek on his shoulder, he rested his on her head. He even remained there when she offered her next idea, though she'd likely feel him tense and something in his bearing and voice lighten, a note of eagerness slipping openly into his next words.
"That's a good idea - find him if you can? Does he go? This elf and Jack. Combine our powers." Mundane powers. "Your elf for the...education. Jack for our pass.
"I'll see if I can find that Doctor, too, if they're still here and not off, you know." He waved a hand vaguely, the gesture meaning 'anywhere' - that group tended to travel more than either he or Cie were allowed. Such were the freedoms of the regular folks. "...but I don't know if they've gone, y'know. This far. If they could sprout feathers, they'd might as well go full bird, you know?" It might have been a by-product of age, trauma and fear, but the Vaidya, for all their strangeness, had seemed far more put-together about these things.
He finally straightened up, should she allow it, twist around in his position to look at her. Really look at her, eyes shining and full of gratitude and appreciation and willing to just linger there and hold onto that...and then should she allow, he would pull her into a tight hug, that spoke just as many volumes as his eyes - even if he didn't seem quite able to articulate much of it at all in the moment.
Cienna — 05/06/2021
It was a sad thing, to be that restricted by their families. It would have been nice to change things, though there was little they could do about that until they took over their respective Houses. Unfortunately, she had no chance of that - with the possibility of being married to another House.
"I can certainly try! I know the elf, Akka, goes to the market often. I will find him there when my brother's distracted." Not that Tommaso would bother her and a customer, but there was always a chance. Jack was easier, despite her father's frustrations and the risked arrival of Harpur. "Hopefully they're here.." If not, they could wait, right? "We'll figure things out, don't worry." She'd adjust the collar of his shirt, smoothing out the rest.
Cienna had straightened up too and smiled up at him, all too happy to accept that embrace. She'd return it fondly, resting her head against his chest. "You're going to be alright, I feel it."
Marc — 05/08/2021
"Hopefully," he echoed. "Can take Rosa on a walk, you can come with...just walk to them. Happen to run into them. I'd like to see what your elf has!"
And then, that hug. "Cie, I...I love you so much. I know you...I mean." She knew that. He'd not even known when he'd started saying it, knew he'd always shown but it spilled out properly just now, only truly restrained by his attempts at keeping his voice low - and albeit probably into her hair or shoulder! But her thought was a thought shared - and between her illness and whatever it was (never mind their marriage situation), those magical restrictions were really starting to get to him, ungluing his mind and composure at the seams.
"You always keep your head and have a plan in these situations. Even back when it was...normal things." Like his mother and Piero. "I've always admired that, I've always loved that, I wish your father and Tomm knew, somehow, how much you do. I'll be okay. So will you." And even if he...melted into a bird thing or whatever fresh hell this had become...a year ago, they'd sworn to each other that feelings wouldn't change.
But gods almighty, it'd be a lot harder to do any of this if one of them was a monster. Or dead.
Cienna — 05/11/2021
"I think that'd be a good idea." No one would question a random run-in, right?
The confession was met with a smile, and Cienna hugged him tighter. "I love you, too, Marc. We'll get through this, find a solution." Find a way to make it easier, hide it better - perhaps help Marc gain some real control. Someday, Cienna was sure he'd accept it as a positive thing and use it to his advantage. "You help, you know. You encourage my plans." Whereas her family stuck to old ways. A shame.
"Someday, maybe they will. Jack being around Tommaso helps, despite the issues." With their father, with Harpur. If only they knew how close the pair were, outside Nobleman and their new, paid Guard. "Yes, we will be. We have each other, we can handle anything!"
Marc — 05/14/2021
A little nod into their hug (which ended in a little unexpected burst and sniff of a laugh into her shoulder); knowing how close they were and allowing it would...really make so many things easier while things went to hell, never mind during the perfectly mundane practice of fathers shopping around for marriages like they were playing multi-leveled chess.
He hugged tighter, fingers curling carefully through her hair, cradling her back. When he did finally pull away, it was slower, reluctant; the pull was one that saw his lips graze her cheek.
Imagine getting caught like that.
His recovery was meant to pick up the conversation naturally...but really there was far too much flushing and scrambling to regain nerves and packing away of the flurry of emotions high and low into something he could handle for that to truly be the case.
"Jack can be like a...practice supernatural. If Tomm's all right with things, then I'm sure they can... eventually handle this, right? M'still Marc, like we were all saying a while ago, it'll be insane if they...stop, or be different right?" Aeson or Tomm turning away was a horrifying thought, never mind his father. Or Harpur. "I'm still Marc...and magical help for you is still...help." It was a trail, but it was a more confident trail than he'd been minutes ago, never mind hours ago when he was a mess of nerves and blood and feathers.
Cie just did that, she could fix anything. She had a way with that, always had.
It was sick, then, it was cruel, that nobody could fix her.
"Yes. Yes, we will be okay." He looked around quickly, still somewhat flushing. "...think we should head back? 'least before some worker wanders back here..."
Cienna — 05/15/2021
A grin followed that little laugh, and she rested her hands against his shoulder-blades. A quiet love for the moment followed, one that she inwardly promised would be repeated again and again. When the light kiss followed, her fingers moved to caress one of his cheeks and she blushed faintly after.
"Our fathers might be a harder thing to overcome, but I hope Tommaso helps bridge the gap a little." As much as they tried, but it came with the occasional argument and Tomm heading off for a bit. ...It'd take time, she knew. "With the help, it would.....they'd have to decide what means more; their feelings towards people like Jack or my declining health." Cienna would definitely ask what they cared about more, if it came down to it.
"Your Father will also need to remember that, despite everything, you are still his son and an important part to your family." She could imagine it wouldn't sit well with his sister, if things became too heated. He'd likely lose two children, if it did.
"....I think that'd be wise. We'll have to have some time in the garden, where no one will bother us."
Marc — 05/22/2021
He lingered at her touch as long as he could. Even if they were both blushing, he didn't want that moment to end. And even when it did, he'd savor every moment of closeness he could.
"See, I'd hoped my father was starting to get over that. He was talking about...weird things the other day, like Mom's stories about that bird and that tree... and didn't throw Jack out of our party. And he hired that troll for a gardener." It looked...a little hopeful. "Then you ask him about things, and he goes on about 'knowing their place' and it's...I don't know." And he still was rather close with Harpur - and THAT man didn't appear to be relenting on accepting anything supernatural, either.
He sighed and dragged one hand down his face; it seemed to help.
"I'll call it. I'll help you call it. If you have to." He was on her wavelength. "They can't...they won't throw their children to the wolves because of that. I know it." He didn't. But that doubt didn't affect his voice, this time; Cienna had his back and support for everything.
He'd rise, then, and offered her an arm as an escort. The gesture was somewhat playful as much as it was flirtatious ("no feathers, I swear").
"Garden's good. Let Jian run around a little. Some of the trees are already flowering, too! Maybe this year I'll actually paint 'em half as good as Richa could..."
Cienna — 05/23/2021
"I don't get it...I wonder if he's worried about his image, or showing he's changing his ways." People would see the supernaturals around his home, but he seemed to just treat them as the help and little else. But, to the point that it was pushing the boundaries of treating them like people.
"I'm sorry it's this way. Maybe it'll be different, because you're his son." Cienna could only hope, but she wouldn't push for him to reveal anything. She'd smile at his offer, both verbal and physical, taking his arm as she replied. "I agree, they won't. We're what's needed." And if they did, they'd lose a lot themselves.
"I think you will, Marc. I will be happy to practice with you." Once they started walking, she'd lean into him with a relaxed smile.
Marc — 05/31/2021
"See, I hope that's not us in a few years, old people not saying what they mean!" Marc had enough trouble with that already, and with what he and Cie had learned in the past few years, with what was coming in from Harpur, from Aeson, and with this very weird line his father appeared to want to tread, it was a mess made far more complex than perhaps it needed to be, as far as he was concerned. And at this point, he feared this complexity would come at the expense of their children.
Hopefully it wouldn't get that far.
Cienna leaned in...and while they'd began their walk arm-in-proper-arm, he would eventually venture an arm around her shoulders...and should she allow, it would travel carefully to her waist when they'd reached the relative secrecy of the garden.
